AN independent review has been launched today into the care and subsequent deaths of older people at Gosport War Memorial Hospital.

The investigation into events at the hospital from the 1980s through to the early 2000s was officially started following the announcement by Care Minister Norman Lamb this morning.

As previously reported, it was announced earlier this year that Bishop James Jones, who previously chaired the Hillsborough Independent Panel would oversee the independent investigation.

Bishop James Jones, chairman of the Gosport Independent Panel said: "Many families have on-going concerns about the way their relatives were treated and how their complaints have been handled.

"I want to help provide clarity and understanding for the families.

"By working with them to set and deliver the terms of reference with a panel of experts from different fields, I believe I can achieve this.

"Independence and integrity will be the hallmarks of the Panel's work.”

Care Minister, Norman Lamb said:"The events at Gosport War Memorial hospital have caused immense distress to the families of the patients who died. I have confidence that this independent panel will help answer the many questions they have.”

After consulting with the affected families, Bishop Jones said he had worked hard to ensure their views have been reflected in the terms of reference.

At an inquest into the deaths of several patients who were treated at the hospital, families heavily criticised the care their relatives received.

The criticism centred around the level and regularity of pain relieving drugs being administered to older patients at the hospital.

Gosport MP Caroline Dinenage said: “I welcome the Government’s commitment to finding out what really happened at Gosport War Memorial Hospital and am pleased that the expertise of Bishop James Jones and his colleagues will be drawn on throughout this process. 

"I would urge anyone with information to make contact with the Independent Panel.”

The Anglican Bishop of Portsmouth, The Rt Revd Christopher Foster, said: "I am pleased that this Independent public inquiry has at last been established.

“Under the leadership of Bishop James Jones, who chaired the Hillsborough Independent Inquiry, there is the commitment to helping the families and the community understand as fully as possible the circumstances surrounding the care and deaths of patients at the hospital.

“I pray for all those searching for answers about the care and deaths of loved ones at the hospital and for those involved in giving and hearing evidence.”

Gillian MacKenzie said she believed gross negligence had resulted in her mother Gladys Richards' death at Gosport War Memorial Hospital in 1998.

Inquests held in 2009 recorded that drugs had been a contributory factor in five other deaths at the hospital.

The Panel are calling on anyone wishes to raise any concerns about their treatment, or their relatives, at Gosport during this period, they should contact the Panel - https://gosportpanel.independent.gov.uk or enquiries@gosportpanel.independent.gov.uk